Our Blog
Alausí Welcomes Back the Nariz del Diablo Tourist Train
With the grand re-opening of the Nariz del Diablo, the famous train ride that starts in Alausi, Ecuador, set to take place in November, we wanted to republish this article by guest author, Amy Atland. But before you read about her family's experience on the train,...
Alausí Welcomes Back the Nariz del Diablo Tourist Train
With the grand re-opening of the Nariz del Diablo, the famous train ride that starts in Alausi, Ecuador, set to take place in November, we wanted to republish this article by guest author, Amy Atland. But before you read about her family's experience on the train,...
How to Apply for the Tourist Visa Extension
Applying for your tourist visa extension in Ecuador need not be complicated. Since we went through this process in 2019, the Ecuadorian government has updated a lot of information, including adding an online system (updated March 20, 2025) for those who can read...
Do You Really Need an RFID-Blocking Wallet or Passport Holder?
There are over 20,000 RFID-blocking wallets and similar products on Amazon. Do you really need one to protect your credit card or passport? In this article, I cover the basics of RFID tags, review the risks of someone skimming data from your credit card or U.S....
Cuenca’s Cacao Museum: An Interactive Chocolate Experience
Cuenca’s Museo del Cacao still flies under the radar. With so many incredible attractions in the city—like the Incan ruins at the Pumapungo Museum and the stunning landscapes of nearby El Cajas National Park—it’s easy to see why. Even so, I don’t think the museum’s...
Randy Borman: A Bridge Between Worlds
Randall (Randy) Bruce Borman defied conventional definitions of belonging. To an outsider, he looked like an average American white man. To the Cofán, he was one of their own. To me, he was a friend and mentor. I only wish I had met him earlier in my life. Randy...
In Search of the Andean Spectacled Bear
The Andean spectacled bear is one of South America’s most elusive creatures, a ghost of the cloud forest that few are lucky enough to see in the wild. As the only bear species native to South America, it holds a special place in Andean ecosystems and the cultural...
The Gringo’s Guide to Riding the Quito Metro
The Quito Metro is a fast, affordable, and efficient way to get around Ecuador’s capital. As one of the newest public transportation systems in the Americas, it comes with a slight learning curve—especially for tourists. We checked it out on our last trip to Quito,...
The Pacari Chocolate Experience
Paccari Chocolate has long held a special place in our chocolate-loving hearts—not just for their mouthwatering mix of rich dark chocolate and vibrant Ecuadorian fruits, but for their commitment to organic and sustainable practices. That's why we're happy to announce...
Where to Find Ethno-Urban Art in Quito, Ecuador
Looking for unique gifts from Ecuador that your friends back home will absolutely love? If you love bold, one-of-a-kind designs then Vulgomaestre Ethno-Urban have the perfect souvenirs for you. Vulgomaestre: Modern Design Highlighting Ecuadorian Traditions Since its...